1. Read a hero tale, such as the story of King Arthur, Robin Hood, or Ulysses. Compare Birle's adventures to a hero tale, noting similarities and differences.

2. Read Voigt's novel Jackaroo, which tells the story of Birle's grandmother.

Compare the heroines, Birle and Gwyn, noting similarities and differences.

3. Voigt suggests a happy ending for Birle, Orien, and their child. Will Orien be happy as a puppeteer? Will Birle be content to live quietly in a remote holding? Will Yul be able to fit in and adjust to this new life? Write another chapter, showing your readers what happens to these characters.

4. Write a report, based on research, describing life in a port city during the Middle Ages. How accurate is Voigt's picture of life in Corbel's City? Explain your evaluation based upon your research.

5. Plants and herbs have been used as...